Incoming freshmen meet new administrators at Milford High orientation

Incoming freshmen caught their first glimpse Thursday of what life will be like when they enter Milford High School on Aug. 27.

By Zachary Comeau/Daily News Staff

Milford Daily News

By Zachary Comeau/Daily News Staff

Posted Aug. 16, 2013 at 12:01 AM
Updated Aug 16, 2013 at 4:03 PM

By Zachary Comeau/Daily News Staff

Posted Aug. 16, 2013 at 12:01 AM
Updated Aug 16, 2013 at 4:03 PM

MILFORD

» Social News

Incoming freshmen caught their first glimpse Thursday of what life will be like when they enter Milford High School on Aug. 27.

In the high school’s auditorium, incoming students gathered for freshmen orientation that included a presentation from Principal Carolyn Banach, who was appointed to the position earlier this year after serving as an assistant for five years, and later toured the building.

"We’re all really excited that you’re here," Banach told the students. "High school is a critical time in your life. All of the decisions you make now will eventually lead you to what will happen to you beyond high school."

Other new appointments include two assistant principals: former math teacher Mark McGillvary and former Middle School East math teacher Brian Macchi.

Macchi, who also coached the Scarlet Hawk softball team to back-to-back Division 1 state championships in 2012 and 2013, said administration has always been something he’s wanted to do, especially at his alma mater.

"They gave me so much, so I look forward to giving back," he said.

A graduate and former standout baseball player at the high school, Macchi will also continue to coach the Milford Post 59 Legion baseball team, which captured the 2013 Massachusetts Intrastate title on Aug. 7.

McGillvary, who has taught math at the high school for nine years, is also starting his first year as an assistant principal.

Along with the new administrative team, a new schedule is being implemented, which McGillvary said he is "excited" about."

Under the new schedule, Banach said students will take a 56-minute year-long academic class, as opposed to the previous 90-day schedule.

"Year-long classes will support students’ efforts toward high-stakes testing near the spring and end of year – such as the SAT’s, AP exams, the ACT and MCAS," she said.

In previous years, a student could have taken a math course during the first semester, but not take another math class until second semester sophomore year.

"That gap of learning can be very difficult for students," she said. "A year-long schedule in major academic subjects will support their efforts in advancing academic achievement."

Banach added that electives will remain on a 90-day schedule, while health and physical education courses will only be on a 45-day schedule.

"We will continue to work on curriculum and ensure that formative and summative assessments are aligned to the Common Core curriculum," she said, adding that there is a "wealth of data" from the College Board that will be used to "steer teaching and learning."

In addition to a new administrative team, Banach said seven new teachers have been hired for the upcoming school year.

Julia Gustavensen, one of the incoming freshmen, said the high school, is "much bigger" than Middle School East. She said she expects a lot of work, but knowing Macchi will help smooth the transition.

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Stan Demko also said knowing Macchi will be helpful during his first year of high school.

"He knows us – he knows how we think," he said, adding that most freshmen will probably be somewhat nervous.

Incoming freshmen Ashby Hobart and Alex DiStephano said the number of students at the high school - about 1,000 - is daunting.

"With more students, it might get a little scary," DiStephano said. "I might get lost."

Lauren Zouranjian said she learned helpful information during freshmen orientation.

"Hopefully, high school will be a lot better than middle school," she said, adding that she looks forward to going to school with more students and having "more freedom."

"I’m nervous but excited," she said.

Zachary Comeau can be reached at 508-634-7556 and zcomeau@wickedlocal.com Follow him on Twitter @ZComeau_MDN.